The number of books banned in US public schools surged in 2023 to over 10,000, as reported by PEN America, highlighting the influence of new censorship laws in Republican-led states like Florida and Iowa. The study revealed that the bans nearly tripled from the previous year, with notable titles such as “Roots” and “Go Tell It on the Mountain” being restricted for the first time. Legislative actions have allowed for easier removals of materials without due process, notably targeting books discussing sexual orientation and racial issues. Despite legal challenges from publishers and advocates, states continue to enforce these controversial bans, which disproportionately affect LGBTQ+ literature and narratives of people of color. Legal efforts have succeeded in some areas, restoring several banned books following lawsuits.
| Signal | Change | 10y horizon | Driving force |
|---|---|---|---|
| Surge in book bans in US schools | Increase from minimal to widespread | Continued legal battles over censorship | Political agendas influencing educational content |
| New laws ease book removal process | From protection to restriction | Tighter regulations on educational materials | Growing cultural divisions and debates |
| Targeting diverse and sexual content books | From inclusion to exclusion | Limited representation in school libraries | Advocacy against perceived inappropriate materials |
| Legal challenges attempt to reverse bans | From status quo to active resistance | Potential for gradual restoration of titles | Resistance from authors and civil rights groups |
| Shift towards more extreme censorship legislation | From balanced to extreme measures | Possible nationwide regulatory framework | Legislative control over educational content |